[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 72 (Friday, April 28, 2023)]
[House]
[Page H2093]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              {time}  0915
                     RECOGNIZING WORLD AUTISM MONTH

  (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
World Autism Month and the efforts of north central Pennsylvanians in 
supporting those with autism.
  In America today, 1 in 36 children will be diagnosed with autism 
spectrum disorder beginning in their first years of life. Although 
several factors may influence the development of autism, each person 
with an autism diagnosis requires unique support.
  In Clarion and Venango Counties, Autism Tough Foundation works to 
raise awareness and support for autism through numerous sensory-free 
events each year. This month, more than 100 students at Keystone High 
School joined Autism Tough Foundation to raise awareness in their first 
Walk for Autism.
  Meanwhile, neighboring Potter County is one of the first in 
Pennsylvania to equip county agencies with sensory kits to aid in 
communication and expressive language. Potter County is also home to 
Jasmine Floof, a service dog who specializes in assisting those with 
autism focus their attention and manage anxiety when accessing county 
services.
  This World Autism Month, I commend Potter County and Autism Tough 
Foundation for leading the State in supporting people with autism in 
their everyday lives.

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